The Anthony Cummings trained Upbeat has broken through for an overdue second win with a strong performance in the Ranvet Benchmark 73 Handicap over 1500m at Rosehill.
Photo by Racing and Sports
Front runner Senta D'Amor kicked strongly at the top of the straight and looked to have the race at his mercy with a furlong to go, but under strong riding from the recently returned, and very much in form, Peter Robl, Upbeat was able to gun him down in the shadows of the post.
A three-year-old gelding by Strategic, Upbeat has always shown plenty of talent but has been unable to cash in on it until now.
The run was sharp improvement on last start having been well beaten by both Senta D'Amor and The Owl over the same track and distance two weeks ago.
Upbeat was trapped wide on that occasion and failed to finish off but he was able to reverse that form in style today.
An ideal run throughout was the key to changing the fortunes of Upbeat according to Cummings' stable representative Barry Smith. 'It makes all the difference to get that good run in transit.' Smith said.
'He's a tough little bugger, nothing phases him, he's like a little pony around the place and just goes where you want him to go.'
It was another winner for Peter Robl who is riding in terrific form since returning from lengthy suspension. After the race Robl echoed the thoughts of Smith.
'The plan was to just keep rolling forward until we get to the one off, he travelled really nicely and was strong on the line.' Said Robl. 'Anthony has done a really nice job with him and I think he will win a couple more for them.'
Race favourite The Owl was hampered rounding the home turn and was forced to race in restricted room. He found the line nicely, however, and looks set to win races himself in the weeks to come.
